Katie Thurston Responds Defiantly to Surrogacy Criticism During Cancer Fight

Former Bachelorette Katie Thurston and her husband, Jeff Arcuri, believe that surrogacy is “likely” the best path for them to grow their family after her battle with breast cancer.

In a recent Instagram Story Q&A on Friday, March 28, Thurston, 34, addressed a question regarding whether she would “have” to utilize a gestational carrier to eventually have a child.

“I dislike the phrase ‘have to’ in medical contexts, similar to the idea of ‘never say never,’” Thurston responded. “Nonetheless, Jeff and I have talked about the importance of my health, and when the time comes, surrogacy will probably be the best option for us.”

Thurston also dismissed any criticism regarding her potential decision to use a surrogate.

“[This is] a gentle reminder to refrain from judging celebrities who opt for surrogacy,” Thurston remarked. “You are unaware of their personal circumstances.”

Thurston was diagnosed with breast cancer in February, and her diagnosis was escalated to stage 4 on Friday after a malignant spot was found on her liver. Before beginning treatment, she decided to freeze embryos with Arcuri, 36.

“I’m essentially putting my ovaries in a temporary menopausal state (I like to call it hibernation) to shield them from chemotherapy,” the Bachelor Nation alum elaborated in a follow-up Q&A post on Friday, adding that she also received Zoladex injections. “This will lower estrogen production, which is particularly crucial in hormone-receptor-ER+/PR+ breast cancer, as estrogen can promote cancer growth.”

Thurston mentioned that her pre-treatment IVF cycle was “supported and approved” by her oncologist.

Us Weekly exclusively confirmed earlier in March that Thurston married Arcuri prior to commencing her cancer treatment.

“It was incredibly sweet. We wanted to plan a wedding, and there are numerous emotions involved with chemotherapy and health uncertainties. We didn’t know what the next year would entail,” Thurston shared with Us. “One night, he said, ‘I want to show you that I still love you and that I’m here for the long haul. Let’s get married tomorrow.’ We brought our parents from Michigan and Washington State, obtained our marriage license, and a friend officiated the ceremony.”

She added, “It was a beautiful gesture from him, truly embodying the idea of ‘in sickness and in health.’ He proves every day that he is committed. His efforts continue to surprise me.”

Arcuri, a comedian who postponed his international tour to align with Thurston’s treatment schedule, also spoke to Us about the reasons for accelerating their wedding plans.

“I want to be by her side in the hospital and confidently say, ‘My wife’s in there.’ That carries more weight,” Arcuri explained. “I don’t want to be away from you during any of this.”